Historical Background
What type of war has Sudan been involved in on multiple occasions?
Civil War
Who are the 2 main characters in the novel?
Salva and Nya
Where does majority of the story take place?
Sudan
Define simile.
Comparison between two things using the words "like" or "as"
What was the connection between Salva and Nya?
Salva's organization, Water for Sudan, is building the well in Nya's village.
What is a civil war?
A civil war is a conflict/war between groups within the same country.
Provide 2 characteristics of Salva and proof for each.
Answers may vary.
Resilient, confident, determined, kind...
Where does Salva move to in order to escape his war torn country?
America (USA)
The authors message, purpose for writing the story, central topic/subject/message in a novel.
What are two important symbols from the novel?
1. Water
2. Honey
Where is Sudan located?
Africa
Provide 2 characteristics of Nya and proof for each.
Answers may vary.
Obedient, sceptical, curious, helpful...
What was the main conflict causing the civil war in Sudan?
Religion - the government wanted everyone in Sudan to practice the Islamic faith.
Define metaphor.
Comparison of 2 things without the use of the words "like" or "as."
Saying one thing is something else.
"A rumour spreading through the camp. It began as a whisper, but soon Salva felt as if it were a roar in his ears." What is this an example of?
Personification
What are some of the natural resources Sudan has?
1. Oil
2. Petroleum
3. Natural Gas
4. Precious Metals
Describe the character of Uncle Jewiir.
Leader (leads Salva and the group), Kind (shares resources found with Salva), strong (military background), compassionate (helping Salva), motivating...
What problems does Salva face? (2)
1. Survival during war
2. Search for his family
Define Personification and provide an example.
Giving a non-living thing/object human like characteristics.
Nya's sister Akeer gets sick from drinking dirty water. Why is it so devastating when someone in Nya's village gets sick?
No ready access to medicine or doctors. must walk great distances for medical attention.
What 4 major problems has Sudan faced internally over the years?
1. Civil wars over religion
2. Scarce access to resources (water, food, medicine, cattle)
3. Fighting/killing among tribes (Dinka and Nuer)
4. Control over the oil fields
Describe the character of Marial.
Compassionate and hopeful. Salva's friend. Comforts Salva when he is feeling anxious about where they are walking to. Tells Salva they will find their families. Killed by a lion.
What problems do Nya and her family face? (2)
1. Lack of access to water
2. Access to medicine and/or doctors when someone gets sick
What is the main theme in the novel?
Perseverance can lead to happiness.
OR
Overcoming challenges can change a person for the better.
Why is the connection between Nya and Salva ironic?
Salva is Dinka and Nya is Nuer. This reiterates one of the main themes that challenges can shape us for the better. The Nuer tribe killed Salva's uncle, instead of being bitter and hateful he becomes better.